In the Long Run

Since Monday, I’ve run a marathon. Let me clarify that. Since Monday, I’ve run, in four different workouts, the same distance as a marathon. On Saturday I’ll run 18 more miles in a single long run. This week marks the second highest mileage week of my entire training program, and I’m supposed to be on a vacation! I feel tired, and a little skeptical. Will I be able to run the whole 26.2 miles on October 7^th in Leavenworth, WA? Will I be able to finish in 3 hours and 50 minutes, my goal time? Why am I doing this to myself, anyway?

But as I doubt the wisdom of doing, or my ability to complete, a marathon, I am teased by a human interest story on The Today Show. Apparently Natalie Morales, one of the part-time anchor/personalities, will train for and run the New York marathon this fall. Morales has run four previous marathons, but none “since I had a child,” she said. She added that she will be blogging her experience on the show’s website, along with running tips.

Suddenly the old competitive fire returned. “If SHE can do it, so can I! Yeah, come on!! You go girl! And I’ll do it better!” I gave myself a quick pep talk. I also thought of my good friend who had considered doing this marathon with me, who is currently in the hospital recuperating from a serious accident. She is working hard on her rehab. She isn’t giving up. When I am exhausted and stiff after my long run on Saturday, I’ll think of her. I’ll be grateful for the reason for my aches and pains, and fatigue. I can run.

Posted by Cyppy at 8:39 PM